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Bahrain Tourism: Must Sees and Must Knows
 In the Arabian Gulf by Saudi Arabia’s east coast lie forty islands together making up Bahrain, known as “two seas” referring to fresh water springs found within a surrounding salt water sea. Long ago the islands were economically sound because of their natural pearls but later oil wells were founded. The springs flourish the Arabic lands in the north and south with healthy irrigation. English is widely used, even more so in business, while the official language is Arabic.
Evidence found by archaeologists gives indication that in the 3rd millennium B.C.E the Sumerians may have settled on the main island. This area was called Dilmun in 2000 B.C.E and described as being the famous Aden gardens. Dilmun was used as a post for trading routes situated betzeen Mesopotamia, today’s Iraq, and the Indus valley, today’s India.
One can arrive here by air, land or sea. Bahrain ports and gulf ports as well as Pakistan and India all can be connected to by steamers or ferries. Saudi Arabia’s mainland has a causeway of 25 km that links to Bahrain and another is expected to be completed in 2010 at 40 km which is the longest the world has yet to see. Gulf Air is the Bahrain’s national air carrier with frequent flights to international destinations including Asia, Europe and others.
Certain traveling tips are necessary. No matter what the purpose for visiting Bahrain all are required to have a visa except individuals from GCC states (Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates). Foreigners simply need a tourist visa. Tipping in cafes and restaurants is highly appropriate at 10-15%. Although there is a service charge added to one’s bill this is usually taken by the restaurant or café owners. Specific clothing is important to not cause any up stir. Women should not wear items that can be seen through, shoulders need to be covered and all clothing should go below the knee. Of course, bikinis, swimsuits and shorts are fine when at beach clubs or hotels.
Historical and archeological places to visit include A’Ali Burial Mounds, Al Hajar Burial Mounds, Ain Umm Al-Sajur Site and more. A’Ali Burial Mounds invites all to stand taller than palm trees on mounds reaching over 80 feet, 65 feet, and 50 feet in height. Northeast of Diraz village is the Ain umm Al-Sajur Site with its famous water spring sitting higher than all others. Al Khamis Mosque is ancient with twin minarets seen when driving on the Shaikh Salman Road. Endless sites like these exist around the area.
Relax in one of the many parks such as Adhari park, Galali park, Water Garden and others. Adhari park is a more modern park spreading over 165,000 square meters providing leisure activities including 38 indoor and outdoor rides for those of any age, 10 dining options, a Family Entertainment Centre and the list goes on. The Al Areen Wildlife park is a wonderful development for those desiring to be apart of Arabia’s natural aspect. One can see wild animals such as rare species that are protected like Adax, Oryx and Reem Gazelle.
Al Jazzier beach and Asry beach are two ‘hot spots’ to cool off those steamy days. Three known islands are Hawar, Al Dar and Amwaj. Leisure and water activities are provided on Al Dar island while experiencing a little of Mother Nature. Hawar islands are picturesque with peaceful waters, palms flowing with the local breeze, and sacred desert sands. These 16 Hawar islands have been well preserved over time.
There is fun and entertainment for everyone in the family. Bowling allys and ice skating can bring the family together while attractions such as Lost Paradise, Adhari park, Water Garden and Sakir Horse Race Course can add excitement. Lost Paradise is like a water park but with several sections. One aspect, Qasar Enkl, consisting of floating leisurely down the Paradise River to watch the park with water falls along the way, a Spa Pool that is highly therapeutic, and a Swim-Up Kiosk which allows snacking and drinking without leaving the water. Another is the Dilmun Beach which is a sandy beach where one can enjoy a wave pool or surfing the thrilling waves or even simply relaxing under the sun on the sandy surface.
There is so much to do that one may decide a longer visit is necessary. Renting a place will end up being the most financially efficient idea. Several renting options exist in the area found through Bahrain Property World. This way one can enjoy seeing it all without being rushed. |
